Walz Announces Timeline for reduction of State COVID Restrictions

ST. PAUL (KDLM) -Minnesota Governor Tim Walz will announce a three-step timeline Thursday at 12pm to end most state COVID-19 restrictions by May 28 and end the statewide mask requirement by July 1, or once 70% of Minnesotans age 16 years and older get their vaccine.

The first phase begins at 12pm on May 7 to relax some restrictions, primarily in outdoor settings.

• Removes limits for outdoor dining, events, and other get-togethers, and ends the mask requirement outdoors except at large venues with over 500 people.
• Eliminates the state-established mandatory closing time for bars, restaurants, and food and beverage service at other places of public accommodation.

The second phase begins on May 28 with capacity and distancing limits coming to an end, including for indoor events and gatherings.

• Face coverings indoors and for outdoor events that exceed 500 people will be required.
• There will be no new safety requirements for businesses, though they must maintain their plans to keep their employees and customers safe – as they have from the beginning of the pandemic – guided only by a minimal universal state guidance document.

The third phase takes place once 70% of Minnesotans age 16 years and older get at least one dose of the vaccine, but no later than July 1.

• The remaining face covering requirement and the requirement for preparedness plans will end. Work on vaccines will continue, and local jurisdictions and entities may set their own mask policies.

The eviction moratorium, a ban on price gouging, and eligibility exemptions for people who receive state services will remain in place.